A Connecticut seventh grader is stepping into the spotlight this holiday season, starring as Marie in one of the most iconic ballet productions in the country.

Twelve-year-old Elanor Murphy, of New Canaan, is performing in the New York City Ballet's legendary production of "The Nutcracker" at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, a show that draws thousands of families each year and more than 100,000 audience members throughout the season.

For Elanor, the moment is full circle.

She was just two and half years old where she first saw "The Nutcracker." She loved it so much, she didn't want to leave the theater. Now, less than a decade later, she's taking the stage herself.

"I play Marie, also known as Clara," Elanor said.

Marie is the young girl at the heart of the story; the child who receives a nutcracker on Christmas Eve and is swept into a magical dream world. It's one of the most coveted youth roles in American ballet.

When Elanor found out she had been cast, she said the excitement was instant.

"I was happy. I was jumping off my seat. I was so excited because my mom FaceTimed me," she recalled.

Unlike many young dancers who rise quickly through the ballet world, Elanor's story breaks the mold. She's not from a famous ballet family, nor does she come from elite or royal circles. She attends public school and balances academics with hours of training; all driven by passion and persistence.

"When I'm on stage, I really have fun and enjoy the moment," she said, "I obviously have some nervous points, but overall I think it's great to show everyone what you love,."

Elanor trains at the School of American Ballet, the prestigious academy affiliated with New York City Ballet. From there, she earned her way into one of the most recognized productions in the world.

This season, Elanor is no longer watching wide-eyed from the audience, she's inspiring the next generation of young dancers right from center stage.

The New York City Ballet's "The Nutcracker" runs through Jan. 3 at Lincoln Center.